Meet Our Instructors
At Thespian Academy, our instructors are more than just teachers; they are mentors, guides, and passionate advocates for the art of performance. Each instructor brings a wealth of experience from the stage, screen, and classroom, ensuring that our students receive the highest quality training. They are dedicated to fostering a supportive and challenging environment where students can explore their potential, develop their skills, and discover their unique voices.
Our faculty is comprised of award-winning actors, directors, playwrights, and vocal coaches. They have performed in prestigious theaters across Chicago and beyond, and their expertise spans a wide range of acting techniques, from classical methods to contemporary approaches. They are committed to staying current with the latest trends and developments in the industry, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for the demands of a professional career.
Below, you will find profiles of our esteemed instructors, detailing their backgrounds, specializations, and teaching philosophies. We encourage you to explore their profiles and learn more about the incredible talent that makes Thespian Academy a leading institution for acting training in Chicago. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our Team

Eleanor Vance
Head of Acting, Shakespearean Performance, Scene Study
Eleanor Vance is a renowned stage actress and the founder of Thespian Academy. With over 30 years of experience, Eleanor has performed in countless productions, including lead roles in Shakespearean classics and contemporary dramas. She brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her classes, inspiring students to embrace the power of storytelling.

Marcus Bell
Improvisation Fundamentals, Comedy Acting
Marcus Bell is a master of improv and comedy, with years of experience performing and teaching. He has trained with some of the best improvisers in the country and brings a unique blend of humor and technique to his classes. Marcus encourages students to take risks, think on their feet, and discover the joy of spontaneous performance.

Seraphina Rossi
Voice and Movement, Physical Theatre
Seraphina Rossi is a highly skilled voice and movement instructor, specializing in physical theatre and vocal projection. She has worked with actors of all levels, helping them to develop their vocal range, physical awareness, and stage presence. Seraphina's classes are designed to empower students to use their bodies and voices to create compelling characters.

Julian Hayes
Acting for Film, On-Camera Technique
Julian Hayes is an accomplished film actor and director, with extensive experience in both independent and mainstream productions. He brings a practical and insightful approach to his Acting for Film classes, teaching students the nuances of on-camera performance, from camera angles to on-set etiquette. Julian is dedicated to helping students succeed in the world of film and television.

Anya Petrova
Scene Study, Character Development
Anya Petrova is a highly respected acting coach and scene study instructor, known for her meticulous approach to character development and scene analysis. She has a deep understanding of acting techniques and a keen eye for detail. Anya works closely with students to help them unlock their full potential and deliver powerful, authentic performances.

Kenji Tanaka
Physical Theatre, Stage Combat
Kenji Tanaka is a dynamic physical theatre instructor with a background in martial arts and dance. He teaches students how to use their bodies to express emotions, tell stories, and create visually stunning performances. Kenji's classes are both challenging and exhilarating, pushing students to explore the limits of their physical expression.
Instructor Profiles
Eleanor Vance - Head of Acting

Eleanor Vance, the heart and soul of Thespian Academy, brings over three decades of stage experience to her role as Head of Acting. Her career began in the vibrant theater scene of Chicago, where she quickly garnered acclaim for her captivating performances in both classical and contemporary works. Eleanor's deep understanding of Shakespearean text and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level have made her a sought-after actress and instructor.
At Thespian Academy, Eleanor teaches Shakespearean Performance and Scene Study. Her teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to find their own unique voice and to embrace the power of storytelling. She believes that acting is not just about technique, but about connecting with the human experience and sharing it with the world. Eleanor's students consistently praise her supportive and challenging teaching style, noting her ability to inspire them to push beyond their comfort zones and discover their full potential.
Eleanor holds a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from the Goodman School of Drama and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the Chicago theater community. She is a passionate advocate for the arts and a dedicated mentor to aspiring actors.
Marcus Bell - Improvisation Instructor

Marcus Bell is a whirlwind of energy and comedic brilliance. As the resident improvisation guru at Thespian Academy, Marcus brings a contagious enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge to his classes. He has trained with some of the leading improv troupes in the nation and has performed in countless comedy shows and festivals. Marcus's classes are known for their high-energy atmosphere and their focus on developing spontaneity, quick thinking, and collaboration.
Marcus's Improvisation Fundamentals course is a favorite among students of all levels. He teaches students the core principles of improv, including "yes, and," active listening, and character development. He encourages students to embrace failure, take risks, and find the humor in everyday situations. Marcus's students consistently report that his classes have not only improved their acting skills but have also boosted their confidence and creativity in all areas of their lives.
Marcus is a graduate of Second City's Conservatory program and is a founding member of the award-winning improv troupe "The Unscripted Players." He is a passionate believer in the power of improv to build community and foster creativity.
Seraphina Rossi - Voice and Movement Instructor

Seraphina Rossi is a master of the human voice and body. As the Voice and Movement Instructor at Thespian Academy, Seraphina helps students unlock the full potential of their physical and vocal expression. She has a background in dance, yoga, and vocal coaching, and she brings a holistic approach to her teaching, emphasizing the connection between the mind, body, and voice.
Seraphina's Voice and Movement course is designed to help students develop their vocal range, projection, and articulation, as well as their physical awareness, posture, and movement. She teaches students how to use their bodies and voices to create compelling characters and to communicate effectively on stage and in front of the camera. Seraphina's classes are known for their challenging exercises and their emphasis on individual attention.
Seraphina holds a Master of Arts in Voice Studies from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and is a certified yoga instructor. She has worked as a vocal coach for numerous theater productions and has helped actors of all levels to improve their vocal and physical performance.
Julian Hayes - Acting for Film Instructor

Julian Hayes is a seasoned film actor and director with a passion for storytelling. As the Acting for Film Instructor at Thespian Academy, Julian brings his extensive on-set experience to the classroom, teaching students the nuances of acting for the camera. He has worked on a variety of film and television projects, from independent dramas to mainstream comedies, and he has a deep understanding of the filmmaking process.
Julian's Acting for Film course covers a wide range of topics, including on-camera technique, scene study, auditioning, and on-set etiquette. He teaches students how to connect with the camera, deliver authentic performances, and navigate the complexities of the film industry. Julian's classes are known for their practical exercises and their emphasis on real-world skills.
Julian holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production from Columbia College Chicago and is a member of the Screen Actors Guild. He is committed to helping students launch successful careers in film and television.
Anya Petrova - Scene Study Instructor

Anya Petrova is a highly acclaimed acting coach known for her insightful and detail-oriented approach to scene study. With years of experience working with both seasoned professionals and emerging talents, Anya has honed her skills in dissecting scripts, exploring character motivations, and crafting compelling performances. Her passion for storytelling and dedication to her students make her a valuable asset to Thespian Academy.
In her Scene Study classes, Anya guides students through a rigorous process of analyzing and interpreting scenes, helping them to develop a deep understanding of their characters and the context of the play. She encourages her students to take risks, explore their emotional range, and find their own unique voice within the material. Anya's students consistently praise her ability to create a safe and supportive environment where they can push their boundaries and achieve their full potential.
Anya received her formal training at the Moscow Art Theatre School, where she studied under some of the most respected acting teachers in the world. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her teaching, drawing on a variety of techniques and approaches to help her students succeed.
Kenji Tanaka - Physical Theatre Instructor

Kenji Tanaka is a dynamic and innovative physical theatre instructor who brings a unique blend of martial arts, dance, and acting to his classes. With a background in diverse movement disciplines, Kenji empowers his students to explore the expressive potential of the human body and to create visually stunning performances. His classes are known for their high energy, challenging exercises, and emphasis on collaboration and ensemble work.
In his Physical Theatre courses, Kenji guides students through a range of techniques, including mime, improvisation, and stage combat. He encourages them to break free from traditional acting conventions and to embrace the power of physical storytelling. Kenji's students consistently report that his classes have transformed their understanding of acting and have helped them to develop greater confidence and creativity on stage.
Kenji holds a degree in Theatre Arts from Northwestern University and has trained with renowned physical theatre companies around the world. He is a passionate advocate for the art of physical theatre and is committed to helping his students discover their own unique movement vocabulary.